Apprenticeship: Week 10

I have been in Canberra for just over ten weeks and, over the course of this time, I've had to learn how to be a world-class triathlete. It has been pretty surprising how little I actually know and how much "upskilling" I have to do of late. I've always known that I was a bit raw as a triathlete and I'm finally addressing the glaring holes in my skills and knowledge. From biking handling to nutrition to injury and illness prevention, I have had a LOT to learn. Needless to say, this has been a process that is both frustrating and overwhelming at times.

Prior to joining Darren's squad, I had always operated with a bit of a meathead mindset: just put your head down and get the work done. The problem with this approach is that it doesn't address efficiency or skill. In order to be able to develop my engine, we've had to first break apart the different components and try to address them individually. Once I have reached a certain level of competency, I've been allowed to increasingly apply my new skills.

For example, in order to fix my horrendously inefficient run form, Darren started me off with easy running, constantly giving me cues for good form. We also have used drills and hill repeats to reinforce a correct lean, foot plant, arm carriage etc. in conjunction with a full physio screening to identify and address muscle inbalances. Once I was able to maintain a basic level of competency, Darren loosened up the reins, tightening them if I revert to old habits. At some point, I'll be able to run smoothly and efficiently in a race. I'm just hoping that it will be sooner rather than later!

The question remains: how did I get so far with such poor skills? I think that the problem is a common one in the sport, as athletes who are improperly developed are thrown into races above their skill level. I just think back to my first World Cup in 2005, when I was in over my head, barely able to ride a bike. Because I was a strong swimmer and reasonably talented athlete, however, I "faked" my way to a top-20 finish. My NGB and coach must have thought that, because I could handle the race and perform decently, I was ready to compete at that level. Nothing could have been further than the truth, as I was basically an amateur with poor knowledge of the sport. Years later, I am finally addressing the basic development that I should have received when I started the sport. I certainly wish that I could have gone through a proper, thorough apprenticeship earlier, but better late than never, right?